K-Pax Racing and its McLaren 12C GT3s set for World Challenge season-opener this weekend at St. Pete

Veteran driver Alex Figge, who has captured five wins over the past three seasons for K-PAX Racing, will be piloting the No. 9 McLaren 12C.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – McLaren Racing has competed around the world since being formed in 1963, capturing Formula One championships and Indy 500 wins, but the fabled manufacturer from Surry, England has not raced in North America since the early ‘80s. That changes this weekend.

K-PAX Racing and its pair of McLaren 12C GT3s will be competing in two Pirelli World Championship races – Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30 – as the sports car season begins in Florida with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

Alex Figge

Photo by: Eric Gilbert

Veteran driver Alex Figge, who has captured five wins over the past three seasons for K-PAX Racing, will be piloting the No. 9 McLaren 12C. Here are his thoughts about the car, this weekend and the ’14 race campaign.

“I’m super excited about this season, especially since we’re driving a McLaren. We’ve got an exotic car that I can’t wait to drive flat-out at St. Pete.”

“The McLaren is bringing attention to the series, K-PAX and even me. I’ve been doing a lot more interviews than last year.”

“Even though we’re still learning the car, and have really only had one full test day, everybody is looking to this season with great anticipation. There will be a bit of a learning curve at the first two races (St. Petersburg and Long Beach), but we should have it dialed-in after that. It may take a few weekends to hit on all cylinders.”

“We’re hoping for a trouble-free weekend and to continue learning about the car. The team and the car are coming together very nicely.”